Every year, thousands of people make their way to visit the beautiful white sands and emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle. In particular, many bring their families and friends to what is known as “Scenic 30-A,” which is a 24-mile stretch of state highway that borders the Gulf of Mexico. As the spring break season progresses, beachgoers arrive in droves. Eventually, most of the visitors return home, but some stay behind and are joined by others like them: sea turtles!

Sea turtle nesting season typically begins in May along the Gulf Coast and runs through October. Over the years, human encroachment has contributed to the reduction of the sea turtle population. Four types of protected sea turtles are known to nest on the beaches along 30-A: leatherback, olive ridley, green, and loggerhead. In the local region, the first three are Endangered and the last one is Threatened.

Following a few simple rules helps keep turtles safe and observers out of trouble:

1 – Avoid shining bright lights on adult turtles, as they can become disoriented. Artificial lighting is more dangerous to hatchlings than predators. They sail out to sea using the brightest light that is usually the moon over the ocean.

2 – Give the turtles ample space to move to their desired location, either to nest or return to the sea. Also, fill in any holes and smooth out any sandcastles you may find on the beach because they can unintentionally catch moving turtles.

3 – Do not leave garbage on the beach. It can distract or be eaten by turtles and other wildlife, causing them harm.

4 – If you find a nest or a turtle laying eggs, call (888)404-3922 at any time. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission will contact trained volunteers who will mark and protect the nest, increasing the hatchlings’ chances of survival.

Around Highway 30-A, a group of volunteers is South Walton Turtle Watch. The organization has been in existence since 1995. They conduct training and recruit volunteers who then search for and document the nests. They also mark the area around the nests so people are less likely to disturb the eggs. Volunteers are required to be trained and certified in the state of Florida. It is actually a criminal offense in the state to disturb these particular turtles and their hatchlings or nests. Violators can be fined up to $500 and/or spend up to 60 days in jail.

Visit http://www.southwaltonturtlewatch.org for more information on sea turtles and nesting season.